Air Travel with Children

Q. I have a lively two-year-old who we are taking on holiday to Italy in September. Have you any tips for travelling on an aeroplane with her? Diana Friend, Chester



Dr Guy Staight replies: A lively two-year-old on a long flight can be a very trying experience. The first problem can occur with children who have difficulty equalising when aircraft are taking off and landing. This is often because they are slightly congested and if they have a cold or snuffles, they can experience quite marked ear pain. It may be worth them either sucking a sweet or drinking from a cup or bottle at intervals during take off and landing. This opens up the eustachian tube and allows equalisation of pressure on either side of the eardrum.


A second option for calming down your child is the use of two types of antihistamines: Promethazine (Phenergan) or Trimeprazine (Vallergan). Both these types of preparation have been used for treatment of allergic conditions for many years. The main side effect is drowsiness and while travelling it is this which is useful. However, occasionally, there is a paradoxical reaction where children can become more alert and hyperactive, and I would therefore strongly recommend that you experiment with this medication before you fly. Both medications are completely safe, although Vallergan is generally preferred for two-year-old children, rather than Phenergan.